Hundreds displaced as Weija dam spillage submerges homes in Accra

Hundreds of homes in parts of Weija and surrounding communities in Accra have been submerged following a controlled spillage of the Weija Dam, leaving thousands of residents stranded and forcing many families to flee their homes in search of safety.

The flooding follows an announcement by Ghana Water Limited confirming that it had commenced the controlled release of excess water from the Weija Dam after water levels exceeded safe operating limits.

In a statement issued on May 27, 2026, Ghana Water Limited explained that the dam’s water level had risen above 48 feet due to continuous heavy rainfall and increased inflows into the reservoir.

According to the company, the opening of all spill gates became necessary to protect the structural integrity of the dam and prevent a potentially more dangerous overflow situation.

The utility provider stated that the controlled spillage forms part of standard safety procedures implemented whenever rising water volumes threaten the safe capacity of the dam.

However, the exercise has triggered severe flooding across several low-lying communities downstream of the dam, with floodwaters invading homes, shops, roads, and other properties.

Affected residents have been seen wading through knee-deep waters while attempting to salvage furniture, electrical appliances, clothing, and other personal belongings from submerged buildings.

Some residents say they were forced to evacuate hurriedly during the early hours after water levels rose rapidly in their communities.

Several roads within the affected areas have become difficult to access, disrupting transportation and commercial activities as floodwaters continue to spread across parts of the municipality.

Residents have also expressed frustration over the recurring nature of flooding linked to spillage from the Weija Dam, arguing that many communities downstream remain highly vulnerable whenever heavy rains occur.

Some affected persons are calling on government and city authorities to implement long-term flood mitigation measures, including improved drainage systems, resettlement support, and stricter enforcement against construction in waterway zones.

Others have appealed for immediate humanitarian assistance, including food, temporary shelter, clothing, and medical support for displaced families, particularly children and the elderly.

Emergency response agencies are expected to intensify rescue and relief operations as authorities continue to assess the scale of destruction and the number of persons affected.

Officials are also expected to monitor water levels closely in the coming days as rainfall continues in parts of the Greater Accra Region.

The latest flooding incident has once again renewed public debate over urban flooding, poor drainage infrastructure, and disaster preparedness in flood-prone communities around the Weija enclave.